Stephen Metcalfe,
local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, has welcomed the announcement of
new measures to tackle immigration in the Queen’s Speech yesterday.
The new
Immigration Bill brings forward measures to clamp down on those from overseas
who abuse the system by stopping immigrants accessing public services which
they are not entitled to, compelling landlords to check the immigration status
of their tenants, and by legislating to ensure that the right to a family life
is not abused.
Stephen Metcalfe commented: “We want this country to attract
people who will add to our national life, but those who do not should be
deterred. Of course there are extenuating circumstances to this but we must
stop people who come here to abuse our benefits and welfare system when there
are many UK citizens in need of assistance. This is simply not fair on tax
payers and this Bill will be pivotal in restoring a sense of justice in the
system.”
Amongst other measures announced in the Queen’s Speech yesterday
were the National Insurance Bill which aims to cut the cost of recruiting new
employees for small businesses, the Care Bill which will cap the costs of care
and extend the means test threshold for financial assistance, and measures to
tackle anti-social behaviour.
Stephen added: “I welcome the Bills announced yesterday. They
demonstrate that this Government is listening and that we are on the side of
hard working people. I look forward to seeing the results of the new measures
once they have been fully implemented.”
